• Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - This shrine is dedicated to Inari, the deity associated with a bountiful harvest and business prosperity. Fushimi Inari Taisha is the principal shrine among all Inari shrines in Japan. The seemingly endless trail of vibrant orange torii gates leading up to Mt. Inari creates a stunning scene and is one of Japan’s most iconic images.
• Nijō Castle - A UNESCO World Heritage site, Nijo Castle was constructed in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867).
• Gion - Navigating the narrow lanes of Kyoto’s Geisha District, Gion, can be challenging for newcomers. A guided tour can alleviate the stress of getting lost, offering a wonderful opportunity to uncover hidden gems cherished by locals and learn about Kyoto’s rich history. Highlights include insights into Geisha culture and rituals, and visits to Gion, Pontocho, and Miyagawacho.
• Nishiki Market Shopping District - Nishiki Market (錦市場, Nishiki Ichiba) is a narrow, five-block-long shopping street featuring over a hundred shops and restaurants. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this bustling market specializes in food-related items, such as fresh seafood, produce, knives, and cookware, and is an excellent place to discover seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, including Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi.

Nishiki Market offers a lively yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for those eager to explore Kyoto’s renowned culinary offerings. The market’s shops vary in size from small stalls to larger two-story establishments, with most focusing on a specific type of food. Nearly everything sold is locally sourced and produced.

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Visit one of Kyoto’s most beloved temples, Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Touring the temple grounds with a guide allows for a deeper understanding of Japan’s history and culture while exploring this magnificent structure. Enjoy insights from an English-speaking guide who ensures no important details are overlooked.
• Kyoto Imperial Palace - The Kyoto Imperial Palace (京都御所, Kyōto Gosho) was the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family until 1868, when the emperor and capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is situated in the expansive Kyoto Imperial Park (京都御苑, Kyōto Gyoen), a beautiful park in the city’s center that also includes the Sento Imperial Palace and other attractions.
• Ginkakuji Temple - Ginkakuji (銀閣寺, Silver Pavilion) is a Zen temple located along Kyoto’s eastern mountains (Higashiyama). In 1482, shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa constructed his retirement villa on the site of today’s temple, inspired by Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), his grandfather’s retirement villa at the base of Kyoto’s northern mountains (Kitayama). The villa was transformed into a Zen temple after Yoshimasa’s death in 1490.

As the retirement villa of an art-loving shogun, Ginkakuji became a hub of contemporary culture, known as the Higashiyama Culture, contrasting with the Kitayama Culture of his grandfather’s era. Unlike the Kitayama Culture, which was confined to Kyoto’s aristocratic circles, the Higashiyama Culture had a widespread influence across the country. The arts that flourished during this period include the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, noh theater, poetry, garden design, and architecture.

• Kinkakuji Temple - Kinkakuji (金閣寺, Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto, with its top two floors entirely covered in gold leaf. Officially named Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and following his death in 1408, it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect as per his will. Kinkakuji inspired the similarly named Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), built by Yoshimitsu’s grandson, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, on the opposite side of the city a few decades later.

Kinkakuji is a remarkable structure overlooking a large pond and is the sole remaining building of Yoshimitsu’s former retirement complex. It has been destroyed by fire several times throughout its history, including twice during the Onin War, a civil war that devastated much of Kyoto, and once more in 1950 when it was set ablaze by a fanatic monk. The current structure was rebuilt in 1955.

• Bamboo Forest Street - The walking paths through the bamboo groves offer a pleasant stroll or bike ride. The groves are especially enchanting when a gentle breeze causes the tall bamboo stalks to sway gracefully. For centuries, bamboo has been used to craft various items, such as baskets, cups, boxes, and mats, in local workshops.
• Samurai Kenbu Theater - After the walking tour, the guide will lead you to the Samurai Kenbu Theater.

• 4-hour Licensed Local Guide Tour of 2 to 3 sights of your choice
• 2-hour Samurai sword lesson and show
• Meet up with guide within Kyoto city on foot

• Private Vehicle
• Transportation fees

This 4-hour walking tour, which includes a 75-minute Samurai sword lesson and a 45-minute Samurai Kenbu show, is perfect for travelers eager to immerse themselves in Japanese traditions and culture. Participants can wear authentic Samurai attire and handle a katana during the sword lesson! Kenbu is a traditional performance that blends swordplay with dance and poetry. Skilled instructors will guide participants through the elegant yet powerful movements, offering a glimpse into the discipline and artistry of the Samurai spirit. Prior to the lesson, there is a walking tour with a licensed guide. The itinerary can be customized after making a reservation. The guide will drop participants off at the Samurai Kenbu Theater following the 4-hour walking tour. Please select 2 to 3 sights to visit during the walking tour! If visiting Kyoto, don’t miss the chance to enjoy this unique experience!

• You must be 6 years old or older to participate in Samurai sword lesson. Children less than 6 years old can observe the sword lesson and attend the show for free.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.